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Jar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jar

[dʒɑːr ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

container

A cylindrical container with a wide mouth and tight lid, typically made of glass or clay, used for storing food or liquids.

Synonyms

container, pot, vessel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
jar

A jar is typically used for storing food items, such as jams, pickles, or sauces. It often has a wide mouth and a screw-top lid.

  • She opened the jar of strawberry jam.
  • He reached for a jar of pickles from the shelf.
container

A container is a general term for an object that holds or stores things. It can be used for food, liquids, or other objects.

  • She packed her lunch in a plastic container.
  • The shipping container was loaded onto the truck.
vessel

A vessel is a formal term often used to describe containers for liquids. It can be used in various settings, including scientific or medical contexts.

  • The lab technician carefully poured the chemical into the vessel.
  • Ancient Egyptians used vessels made of pottery for storing wine.
pot

A pot is used for cooking or planting. In the kitchen, it refers to a deep cooking vessel, often with handles and a lid. In gardening, it refers to a container for plants.

  • She boiled the pasta in a big pot of water.
  • He planted the flowers in a ceramic pot.

Examples of usage

  • She filled the jar with cookies for the party.
  • The jam jar was almost empty.
Context #2 | Noun

measurement

A unit of measurement, equal to approximately 1.1 liters or 2 pints, used for liquids.

Synonyms

measure, quantity, volume.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
jar

This word can also refer to a sudden, unpleasant shock or jolt.

  • The loud noise gave me a jar.
  • He felt a jar as the car hit the pothole.
measure

Use this for referring to the process of determining size, amount, or degree using standard units.

  • The carpenter took a measure of the window frame.
  • Accurate measure of ingredients is critical in baking.
quantity

Use this to talk about the amount or number of something, especially when the amount can be measured.

  • You need a large quantity of flour for this recipe.
  • The factory produces a vast quantity of goods every day.
volume

This is used to refer to the amount of space that a substance or object occupies.

  • The volume of the box is calculated by multiplying its length, width, and height.
  • She increased the volume of water in the pot to make soup.

Examples of usage

  • She bought a jar of olive oil at the store.
  • The recipe called for two jars of water.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The use of jars dates back thousands of years, with the earliest examples found in ancient Egypt, used to hold oils and perfumes.
  • In medieval times, jars were commonly used for preserving food, especially fruits and vegetables, to survive winter months.
  • The word 'jar' is believed to have derived from the Latin 'cervix,' which means 'neck,' referring to the neck of the container.

Arts and Crafts

  • Jars are often used in crafting, like creating decorative gardens or candle holders, showcasing their versatility in art.
  • In modern art, artists frequently transform jars into sculptures or installations, reflecting on consumerism and waste.
  • The movement of upcycling has popularized the use of jars in DIY crafts, turning them into stylish home decor or gifts.

Science

  • In biology, jars are vital for preserving specimens in scientific research, allowing for study and analysis of various organisms.
  • The concept of 'jar' is also found in physics, referring to vacuum jars that can create a low-pressure environment for experiments.
  • Psychoactive substances can sometimes be found preserved in jars in laboratories, showcasing the connection between containers and scientific inquiry.

Culinary Uses

  • Jarring is a common method for home canning, where fruits and vegetables are sealed in jars to preserve their freshness.
  • Glass jars have become popular containers for smoothies and salads, allowing a look at the colorful layers and reducing plastic waste.
  • Restaurants often use jars for serving items like desserts, adding an element of rustic charm to their presentation.

Literature

  • Jars often symbolize containment or preservation in literature, representing the confinement of memories or emotions.
  • In poetry, jars can be metaphors for how humans store experiences and feelings, sometimes leading to unexpected revelations.
  • Famous literary works use jars to evoke nostalgia, highlighting the connections between people and the objects that hold their stories.

Origin of 'jar'

The word 'jar' originated from Middle English 'jarre', from Old French 'jarre', possibly from Arabic 'jarrah' meaning 'earthen water vessel'. The use of 'jar' as a unit of measurement dates back to the late 14th century.

See also: jarring.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,844 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.